Treating varicose veins often brings incredible relief, easing discomfort, reducing swelling, and boosting confidence. However, the journey doesn’t end with the treatment itself. Without proper care, varicose veins can reappear, sometimes even more stubbornly. Taking a few simple but crucial steps can go a long way in preserving the results and keeping your legs healthy, says India’s top general and laparoscopic surgeon and varicose veins specialist, Dr Amita Jain.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen, and twisted veins that often appear blue or dark purple. They happen when faulty valves in the veins allow blood to flow backwards or pool, leading to bulging and discomfort.
Although commonly found in the legs, varicose veins can develop in other parts of the body, too. Factors like genetics, prolonged standing or sitting, obesity, pregnancy, and age increase the risk. Now that we understand what varicose veins are, let’s look at five important aftercare steps to help prevent their recurrence.
Wear Compression Stockings Regularly
Compression stockings help keep blood moving properly through your veins by applying gentle pressure on the legs. They are especially important after varicose vein treatment to reduce swelling and prevent blood from pooling again. Initially, you may need to wear them for most of the day, but even after recovery, it’s a smart idea to use them during long flights, travel, or extended standing periods. Make sure you use the right size and compression level as recommended by your doctor.
Keep Moving and Stay Active
Physical activity is key to maintaining good blood circulation. Gentle exercises like walking, swimming, yoga, or cycling strengthen the calf muscles and encourage healthy vein function. However, avoid heavy weightlifting and high-impact exercises immediately after treatment. Instead, focus on consistency — even a few minutes of movement every hour can make a big difference for your veins.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess weight increases pressure on the veins in your legs, making you more prone to new varicose veins. Maintaining a healthy weight not only supports your overall health but also protects your vein health. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fibre, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Limiting salt intake can also prevent water retention and reduce swelling in the legs.
Elevate Your Legs Daily
One of the simplest but most effective habits is to elevate your legs above heart level for 15–20 minutes at least once or twice a day. This practice relieves pressure on the veins, promotes blood flow back to the heart, and minimises the risk of swelling or clot formation. Whether you’re resting after work or watching TV, leg elevation is an easy addition to your daily routine.
Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing
Sitting or standing in one position for long periods can weaken vein walls and valves, leading to more problems. If your job involves desk work, make it a point to stand, stretch, and walk around for a few minutes every hour. Similarly, if you must stand for long hours, shift your weight from leg to leg or take short walking breaks when possible. Keeping the blood moving is crucial to vein health.
Preventing varicose veins from recurring isn’t complicated, but it does require consistent care. By following these five simple steps, you can protect your legs, preserve the results of your treatment, and enjoy a more active, comfortable life. Remember — small daily habits lead to big, long-term changes when it comes to your vein health.
Dr Amita Jain is a surgeon with the highest degree of professional competence, precision and surgical craftsmanship. Performed all complicated general surgery procedures with in depth knowledge of invasive and few minimal invasive and onco surgical techniques. Underwent special training in trauma, executed various trauma-related complex life-saving neurosurgical procedures, reconstructed injured mangled limbs and performed vascular and reconstructive procedures with critical care.
Dr Amita Jain holds 28 plus years of rich experience in Trauma and General Laparoscopic Surgeries (including Gallbladder stone removal, appendix removal, hernia repair surgery, piles and fissure surgeries). She was the Professor Surgery of at the Army College of Medical Sciences and Base Hospital Delhi Cantt. In 1994 she was commissioned as Surgeon under the United Nations Mission in Congo. From 2020 to 2022, she worked with Bansals Hospital. Currently, Dr Amita Jain is the Sr. General and Laparoscopic Surgeon at Rainbow Children Hospitals, Malviya Nagar, Delhi.
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